Personal development and military training, a unique experience at an engineering school

École Polytechnique’s personal development and military training is a unique educational component not found at other French Grandes Écoles that specialize in engineering. The training enables students to gain a greater sense of the common good, hone their teamwork skills, and develop qualities of loyalty, solidarity and leadership. It is taught throughout the entire Ingénieur Polytechnicien curriculum from first year onwards, which commences with the Incorporation Week and three weeks of military training. Following this, students complete a six-month personal development course in the Armed Forces or at a civilian organization. This specific course, exclusive to École Polytechnique, involves a concrete, hands-on citizen engagement, which is graded and evaluated as part of the Ingénieur Polytechnicien Program.